Retrospective Study of Modifications in Foveal Choroidal Vessel Diameter and Thickness as Indicators for Retreatment of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

Objective This study aimed to optimize the retreatment strategy for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) by evaluating changes in Choroidal Vessel Diameter (CVD) and thickness. Methods A retrospective study tracked PCV patients receiving antivascular endothelial growth factor conbercept injections with a 3+PRN regimen for 6 months. Key parameters were recorded at various intervals postinjection and at follow-up's end. Recurrence prediction was based on CVD and choroidal changes. Results 52 patients (54 eyes) diagnosed with PCV were enrolled. 32 eyes (59.2%) showed exudation resolution, forming the resolution group, while 22 eyes (40.7%) formed the non-resolution group. In the resolution group, 18 patients (56.3%) experienced exudation recurrence and underwent retreatment. Best-corrected visual acuity, central retinal thickness, CVD, and CT significantly improved at the 6-month mark. In the resolution group, CVD and CT decreased continuously from baseline to endpoint ( p < 0.05), indicating a significant relationship between resolution occurrence and CVD/CT changes. In the recurrence group, CVD and CT (nasal) significantly increased within 1 month before resolution. Conclusion In PCV patients treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor, increased CVD and CT during follow-up visits indicate a potential need for retreatment. Predicting retreatment risk based on CVD and CT changes is crucial for future research in determining retreatment necessity for PCV.